Many people have probably heard the statistic that heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. Additionally, it is also a major cause of disability, meaning that a diagnosis of heart disease could qualify a Houston worker for Social Security Disability benefits for illness. But, what exactly is heart disease? This blog post will provide a quick summary. People who suspect they may have heart disease should see a doctor as soon as possible.
The most common cause of heart disease is blockage or narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. The blockage or narrowing happens slowly over time and is the main reason people suffer heart attacks. Other causes of heart disease include problems with the valves of the heart and problems with the heart’s pumping ability, leading to heart failure.
The National Institutes of Health recommend that people take steps to decrease their chances of getting heart disease. These steps include controlling blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, not smoking and getting enough exercise.
A person living with heart disease may find it impossible to work due to the effects of the disease. It depends on how severe the condition is and what one does for a living, but many find that any amount of work puts too much stress on the heart. This makes working a very dangerous proposition. People in this situation may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. The requirements for Social Security Disability can be strict, and many people are turned down on their initial application. Legal assistance with the appeals process can be valuable for claimants.
Source: MedlinePlus, “Heart Diseases,” accessed on April 29, 2018